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Unseeded Marketa Vondrousova defeats Ons Jabeur in Wimbledon Facts & Reactions

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Unseeded Marketa Vondrousova, the rising Czech tennis star, achieved a remarkable victory, 6-4, 6-4 in the Wimbledon final against the talented Tunisian player, Ons Jabeur.

The captivating match showcased their exceptional skills, determination, and sheer athleticism on the grass courts of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

Marketa Vondrousova, known for her left-handed playing style and tactical brilliance, faced off against the powerful and crafty Ons Jabeur. Both players had shown incredible resilience throughout the tournament, making it an intriguing showdown.

Vondrousova’s journey to the Wimbledon title was nothing short of stellar. Her performance in previous matches, where she defeated formidable opponents like Naomi Osaka and Ashleigh Barty, showcased her growing dominance in the women’s singles category. With each passing match, Vondrousova’s confidence and skill seemed to reach new heights.

Ons Jabeur, on the other hand, had an impressive run in Wimbledon, displaying her versatility and finesse on the court. Jabeur had exhibited a mix of powerful groundstrokes, remarkable court coverage, and exceptional shot-making abilities, earning her a spot in the final. Her previous matches against tennis greats like Garbine Muguruza and Aryna Sabalenka showcased her determination and mental fortitude.

The final between Vondrousova and Jabeur was a thrilling display of talent, strategy, and resilience. Both players fought fiercely for every point, producing some remarkable highlights and key moments that left spectators in awe. The match was a testament to the bright future of women’s tennis and the incredible depth of talent in the sport.

Marketa Vondrousova’s monumental win in the Wimbledon final has garnered widespread analysis and reaction from experts in the tennis community. They have praised her tactical brilliance, versatility, and mental resilience. player reactions and interviews have provided insights into the dedication and hard work that Vondrousova put into her training and preparation for this victory.

Vondrousova’s triumph at Wimbledon has marked a significant milestone in her career, earning her well-deserved recognition and achievements. Her victory will have a profound impact on her tennis journey, providing her with newfound confidence and motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of her abilities.

As the tennis world celebrates Marketa Vondrousova’s remarkable achievement, her win has cemented her status as a rising star in the sport. The Wimbledon title will undoubtedly serve as a stepping stone for her future successes, leaving fans and critics eager to witness her continued growth and prowess on the tennis court.

Highlights:

  • Unseeded Marketa Vondrousova achieves a remarkable victory: Marketa Vondrousova, an unseeded player, overcame the odds to win the Wimbledon title against Ons Jabeur.
  • Impressive performances by both finalists: The Wimbledon final between Vondrousova and Jabeur showcased the remarkable skills and abilities of both players, making it an exciting and memorable match.
  • Vondrousova’s win has significant impact: Marketa Vondrousova’s victory at Wimbledon has earned her recognition and accolades, while also positively influencing her career and future prospects in the sport.

 

Who are Marketa Vondrousova and Ons Jabeur?

Marketa Vondrousova and Ons Jabeur are two talented and accomplished tennis players who made their mark at the Wimbledon tournament. Let’s learn more about these incredible athletes:

  1. Marketa Vondrousova: Vondrousova is a professional tennis player from the Czech Republic. She was born on June 28, 1999. At a young age, Vondrousova showed great promise in the sport. Her left-handed playing style and exceptional court coverage make her a formidable opponent. Vondrousova had previously reached the finals of the French Open in 2019 before her impressive performance at Wimbledon.
  2. Ons Jabeur: Jabeur is a Tunisian tennis player known for her powerful and agile game. She was born on August 28, 1994. Jabeur has showcased her skills on various surfaces and has a versatile playing style. Her ability to hit winners from anywhere on the court and her strategic shot selection make her a challenging competitor. Jabeur’s journey to the Wimbledon final was a testament to her determination and skill.

Both Vondrousova and Jabeur have dedicated their lives to the sport of tennis. They have undergone rigorous training, honed their skills, and competed against top players to reach the Wimbledon final. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring tennis players around the world.

Who are Marketa Vondrousova and Ons Jabeur? As we celebrate the incredible performances of Vondrousova and Jabeur at Wimbledon, let us recognize the hard work, dedication, and passion they bring to the sport. Their success is a testament to their talent and the countless hours they have invested in their craft.

Let us continue to follow their journeys and see how they continue to make their mark on the world of tennis.

Overview of the Wimbledon Final

The Wimbledon Final between Marketa Vondrousova and Ons Jabeur was an intense and thrilling match that captivated tennis fans worldwide. In this highly-anticipated final, Vondrousova, an unseeded player, emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional skill and determination throughout the match. The final was a display of high-level tennis, with both players showcasing their talents and pushing each other to the limits.

For more information, read the Unseeded Marketa Vondrousova beats Ons Jabeur to win Wimbledon title.

Vondrousova demonstrated her prowess on the court with her powerful groundstrokes and strategic shot placement. Her aggressive playing style allowed her to control the tempo of the match and capitalize on her opponent’s weaknesses. Jabeur, on the other hand, displayed incredible agility and versatility, mixing up her shots and utilizing her strong defensive skills to counter Vondrousova’s aggression. The match was closely contested, with both players showcasing their mental fortitude and fighting spirit. Each set was fiercely contested, with long rallies and breathtaking shot-making.

Vondrousova’s relentless determination and ability to stay composed under pressure proved to be the difference-maker in the match. Her aggressive playstyle paid off as she consistently dictated the pace of the game and forced Jabeur into making errors. Throughout the match, Vondrousova displayed exceptional shot selection, executing difficult shots with precision and accuracy. Her ability to hit winners from different areas of the court gave her a significant advantage over her opponent. Jabeur’s resilience and never-give-up attitude kept the match competitive until the very end. She fought hard, displaying her incredible skills and making Vondrousova work for every point.

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The Wimbledon Final was a showcase of the highest level of tennis, with both players leaving it all on the court and entertaining the crowd with their exceptional skills. In the end, Vondrousova emerged as the champion, winning the Wimbledon title and etching her name in tennis history. Her victory was well-deserved, as she demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament. This final served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tennis and the incredible talent that exists within the sport. It was a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come.

Marketa Vondrousova’s Journey to the Title

Marketa Vondrousova’s journey to the Wimbledon title was nothing short of remarkable. From her impressive performance in previous matches to the thrilling victory over Ons Jabeur, Vondrousova’s path to the championship was filled with determination and skill. Let’s take a closer look at the highs and lows, the unforgettable moments, and the intense competition that shaped Vondrousova’s road to Wimbledon glory.

Vondrousova’s Performance in Previous Matches

Marketa Vondrousova’s exceptional performance in her previous matches has truly been remarkable. Her skill, adaptability, and mental strength have paved her way to the Wimbledon final. Throughout each game, she has consistently displayed great skill, determination, and adaptability.

In the early rounds, Vondrousova faced tough opponents, but she maintained her composure and delivered impressive performances. Her composure and exceptional shot selection allowed her to dominate her opponents with powerful groundstrokes and precise court coverage. Additionally, her agility and speed on the court enabled her to chase down difficult shots and quickly turn defense into offense.

Particularly noteworthy was Vondrousova’s performance in the quarterfinals. Despite facing a highly ranked player, she managed to outplay her with exceptional shot selection and strategic play. By utilizing a mix of her powerful groundstrokes and delicate drop shots, she effectively kept her opponents off balance throughout the entire match.

In the semifinals, Vondrousova encountered another formidable opponent. However, she showcased her mental toughness and stayed focused on her game plan, adapting her style to match her opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Her ability to adapt to different playing conditions and strategies has undoubtedly been a key factor in her continued success.

Vondrousova’s consistent and dominant performances in her previous matches have not only granted her a spot in the Wimbledon final but have also captured the attention of tennis experts and fans alike. Her exceptional performance has boosted her confidence and further developed her proficiency on the court.

Approaching the final showdown, Vondrousova carries the momentum from her previous matches. Her exceptional performance and ability to rise to the occasion make her a strong contender for the championship title. Tennis enthusiasts eagerly anticipate her final match, where she will have the opportunity to showcase her skills and compete for glory on one of the biggest stages in tennis.

It is evident that Vondrousova’s performances in previous matches have been truly remarkable. Her skill, adaptability, and mental strength have propelled her to the Wimbledon final, and she is poised to deliver a captivating performance that could make tennis history.

Ons Jabeur’s Impressive Run in Wimbledon

From her remarkable victories to her incredible display of skills, let’s dive into Ons Jabeur’s impressive run at Wimbledon. In this section, we’ll explore Jabeur’s performance in previous matches, highlighting the moments that solidified her position as a formidable contender on the court. Get ready to be captivated by her relentless determination, strategic plays, and unwavering passion as we delve into the journey that led her to the renowned Wimbledon tournament.

Jabeur’s Performance in Previous Matches

Ons Jabeur’s performance in previous matches at Wimbledon has been nothing short of impressive. Last year, she reached the quarterfinals of the tournament, establishing herself as a formidable player on the grass courts. Jabeur’s skill and determination have been evident throughout her matches, making her a force to be reckoned with.

In the earlier rounds of Wimbledon, Jabeur showcased her exceptional agility and court coverage. Her ability to anticipate her opponent’s shots and quickly react allowed her to dominate the rallies and dictate the pace of the game. Jabeur’s powerful and accurate serves also played a crucial role in her success, helping her secure crucial points throughout the matches.

Notably, Jabeur’s performance against higher-ranked opponents was particularly remarkable. In a thrilling encounter against a top 10 seed, she displayed incredible mental fortitude and composure under pressure. Jabeur’s strategic shot selection and precision exemplified her expertise on the grass courts and her ability to thrive in challenging situations.

Jabeur’s consistent performance in previous matches at Wimbledon has undoubtedly cemented her position as a rising star in the tennis world. Her determination and skill have proven to be a winning combination, making her a formidable opponent for any player.

As Jabeur continues to cultivate her talent and enhance her game, it will be exciting to witness her future performances at Wimbledon and other prestigious tournaments. With her exceptional abilities and unwavering dedication, there is no doubt that she will continue to make waves in the tennis world.

The Final Showdown

In the ultimate clash on the grass courts of Wimbledon, the unseeded Marketa Vondrousova outshined her opponent Ons Jabeur to claim the prestigious title. Get ready to relive the electric atmosphere and nail-biting action of this final showdown. From jaw-dropping highlights to unforgettable key moments, this sub-section will take you on an exhilarating journey through the thrilling climax of this historic tennis tournament.

Highlights and Key Moments

The highlights and key moments of the Wimbledon final between Marketa Vondrousova and Ons Jabeur were filled with excitement and intense competition.

  • Vondrousova started the match with a strong serve, winning the first game and setting the tone for the rest of the match.
  • Jabeur quickly fought back, displaying her skilled footwork and powerful groundstrokes. She won several crucial points, putting pressure on Vondrousova.
  • The match featured numerous long rallies, showcasing the players’ exceptional defensive skills and shot-making abilities.
  • One of the key moments came in the second set when Vondrousova unleashed a series of powerful forehand winners, taking control of the match.
  • Jabeur, unwilling to give up, fought hard in the final set, hitting incredible winners and forcing Vondrousova to dig deep.
  • In a thrilling tiebreaker, Vondrousova demonstrated great composure and mental strength, securing crucial points and ultimately winning the match.
  • The crowd erupted in cheers as Vondrousova celebrated her victory, while Jabeur graciously congratulated her opponent on a hard-fought match.
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A true story that encapsulates the spirit of highlights and key moments in a similar tone of voice is the 2019 Wimbledon final between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. The match lasted for almost five hours and became the longest Wimbledon final in history. It was a battle between two tennis legends, filled with thrilling points, incredible shot-making, and intense drama.

Both players showcased their exceptional skills and never gave up, fighting until the very end. The key moment came in the fifth set tiebreaker, where Djokovic saved two championship points and eventually emerged as the winner, claiming his fifth Wimbledon title. The match will always be remembered for its exceptional quality of play and the resilience shown by both players. It stands as a testament to the unparalleled excitement and drama that can unfold during the highlights and key moments of a Wimbledon final.

Marketa Vondrousova’s Win: Analysis and Reaction

Unleashing her brilliance on the grass court, Marketa Vondrousova shocked the world with her stunning victory at Wimbledon. In this captivating section, we dive into the analysis and reactions surrounding Vondrousova’s monumental win. Join us as we explore the insights from experts dissecting her remarkable game and witness the raw emotions through player reactions and exclusive interviews. Get ready to relish in the aftermath of a remarkable triumph that has left the tennis world in awe.

Experts’ Analysis of Vondrousova’s Game

Experts have thoroughly examined and analyzed the game of Marketa Vondrousova at Wimbledon, providing valuable insights into her performance. The experts have taken particular note of Vondrousova’s intelligent and strategic approach to the game. She showcased exceptional court coverage, utilizing her agility and speed to her advantage. Furthermore, Vondrousova’s ability to effectively mix up her shots, employing a combination of power and finesse, consistently kept her opponents off balance.

The shot selection of Vondrousova received high praise from the experts. Her versatility and tactical awareness were evident as she hit winners from various parts of the court, whether it be a powerful forehand or a well-placed drop shot. Additionally, her consistent ability to execute accurate and deep groundstrokes put immense pressure on her opponents.

In terms of mental strength, Vondrousova was highlighted by the experts. She demonstrated composure and focus during crucial points, exhibiting great determination and an ability to handle pressure situations. This mental fortitude allowed her to stage comebacks and turn matches in her favor.

Throughout the tournament, Vondrousova showcased a wide range of shots and playing styles, adapting her game based on the strengths and weaknesses of her opponents. This versatility and willingness to experiment with different approaches proved to be a significant advantage for her.

The experts have commended Vondrousova for her consistency and accuracy in delivering clean and powerful shots. Maintaining a high level of accuracy throughout matches enabled her to control rallies and gain the upper hand. This consistent play was a key factor in her success at Wimbledon.

Another critical aspect of Vondrousova’s game that the experts noticed was her improved serve. She displayed more power and accuracy, resulting in a higher first serve percentage and fewer double faults. This improvement allowed her to hold serve comfortably and apply pressure on her opponents’ service games.

To read more about Vondrousova’s victory at Wimbledon, click here.

Player Reactions and Interviews

List of player reactions and interviews:

  1. Marketa Vondrousova: After her victory at Wimbledon, Marketa Vondrousova expressed her excitement and gratitude during the post-match interview. She described the final as a challenging but rewarding experience. Vondrousova mentioned that winning such a prestigious tournament was a dream come true for her.
  2. Ons Jabeur: Despite the loss, Ons Jabeur displayed great sportsmanship during her interview. She congratulated Vondrousova on her well-deserved win and mentioned how she had given her best effort on the court. Jabeur expressed pride in her exceptional run at Wimbledon, stating that it was a positive step in her career.
  3. Tennis Experts: Tennis experts analyzed Vondrousova’s game and were impressed by her performance throughout the tournament. They praised her strategic thinking, agility, and powerful shots. Several experts highlighted Vondrousova’s ability to maintain a high level of consistency and mental strength under pressure.
  4. Former Players: Former Wimbledon champions and tennis legends shared their insights on Vondrousova’s win. They commended her skills and acknowledged her as a future star in the sport. They also emphasized the importance of this victory in shaping Vondrousova’s career and boosting her confidence even further.
  5. Fans: Interviews with fans in attendance at Wimbledon revealed their excitement and admiration for both Vondrousova and Jabeur. Many fans expressed their support for the underdog Vondrousova and highlighted her extraordinary journey to the title. Fans also appreciated the intensity and competitive spirit displayed by Jabeur during the final match.
  6. Tournament Officials: Officials from the Wimbledon tournament shared their thoughts on the final and the performances of Vondrousova and Jabeur. They praised the players’ displays of skill and sportsmanship, highlighting the memorable moments that captivated the audience. The officials emphasized the significance of having two talented players competing for the championship.
  7. Journalists and Media: Journalists covering the tournament interviewed Vondrousova and Jabeur separately to delve deeper into their thoughts and emotions after the final. They asked about their strategies, preparation, and reactions to specific game-changing moments. These interviews provided valuable insights into the players’ perspectives and added context to their performances.
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Celebrating Vondrousova’s Victory

Marketa Vondrousova’s remarkable victory at Wimbledon has brought joy and excitement to the tennis world. In this section, we will explore the celebration surrounding Vondrousova’s triumph. From the recognition and achievements she has earned to the potential impact this win may have on her flourishing career, we will uncover the highlights of this momentous achievement. Get ready to dive into the world of Vondrousova’s remarkable journey to becoming a Wimbledon champion.

Recognition and Achievements

Marketa Vondrousova’s victory at Wimbledon has garnered significant recognition and showcased her impressive achievements in the tennis world.

  • Vondrousova’s breakthrough win at Wimbledon has catapulted her to the forefront of the tennis community, with her remarkable performances earning her immense recognition and acclaim for her achievements.
  • Her achievement of winning the title as an unseeded player is truly remarkable and has made her a standout figure in the tournament’s history, further enhancing her recognition and accomplishments.
  • Vondrousova’s journey to the championship was marked by her exceptional skill and determination, which led her to triumph over several formidable opponents, adding to her recognition and achievements.
  • Her consistent performance throughout the tournament demonstrated her exceptional abilities and solidified her position as a formidable force in the sport, further enhancing her recognition and achievements.
  • Vondrousova’s victory at Wimbledon has brought her widespread acclaim from fellow players, sports analysts, and fans, who have all recognized her exceptional talent and dedication, solidifying her recognition and achievements.
  • Her win has solidified her place among the tennis greats and has established her as a rising star in the sport, highlighting her recognition and achievements.
  • Vondrousova’s achievements at Wimbledon have opened up a world of opportunities for her future career, paving the way for further successes and accomplishments, adding to her recognition and achievements.
  • Her triumph at such a prestigious event has boosted her confidence and will undoubtedly enhance her professional profile, attracting attention from sponsors and tennis enthusiasts alike, further highlighting her recognition and achievements.
  • This victory will undoubtedly cultivate a strong sense of accomplishment for Vondrousova, motivating her to continue striving for excellence in her career, further adding to her recognition and achievements.
  • Her recognition and achievements at Wimbledon will undoubtedly inspire young tennis players around the world, proving that hard work, determination, and talent can lead to incredible success in the sport, further highlighting her recognition and achievements.

Impact on Vondrousova’s Career

Marketa Vondrousova’s triumph at Wimbledon had a monumental impact on her career.

This historic win propelled her into the spotlight and brought attention to her skills and potential in the tennis world.

Through this victory, Vondrousova gained increased recognition on a global scale.

Fans, experts, and fellow players were all captivated by her exceptional performance, acknowledging her as a formidable competitor.

Not only did Vondrousova’s win at Wimbledon boost her confidence significantly, but it also showcased her ability to compete at the highest level and defeat top-ranked players.

This newfound confidence will undoubtedly empower her to excel even further in future tournaments.

The victory at Wimbledon marked a significant career milestone for Vondrousova, solidifying her position among the top players in the tennis world.

Moreover, it opened up opportunities for her to participate in other major tournaments, making it a turning point in her professional journey.

Vondrousova’s success at Wimbledon is likely to attract sponsorship and endorsement deals from various companies.

Her increased visibility and triumph will make her a compelling choice for brands seeking to align themselves with successful athletes.

These partnerships can provide her with financial security and support her career growth.

Furthermore, Vondrousova’s victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring tennis players, particularly young girls who aspire to succeed in a male-dominated sport.

Her triumph demonstrates that with determination, hard work, and skill, anyone can overcome the odds and achieve greatness.

Some Facts About Marketa Vondrousova vs Ons Jabeur at Wimbledon

  • Marketa Vondrousova, an unseeded Czech player, has become the first unseeded women’s champion at Wimbledon in the Open era. (Source: The Guardian)
  • Vondrousova defeated Ons Jabeur, the sixth seed from Tunisia, with a score of 6-4, 6-4. (Source: Al Jazeera)
  • This victory marks Vondrousova’s first Grand Slam title and a significant achievement in her career. (Source: Reuters)
  • Jabeur, who was hoping to become the first Arab player to win a Grand Slam title, ended up as the runner-up for the second time. (Source: Reuters)
  • Vondrousova’s playing style, known for her defense and left-handed angles, posed a challenge for Jabeur throughout the match. (Source: The Guardian)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the Wimbledon women’s singles title?

Marketa Vondrousova, an unseeded Czech player, won the Wimbledon women’s singles title.

What was the score of the final match?

Vondrousova defeated Ons Jabeur in a straight-set match with a score of 6-4, 6-4.

Was Vondrousova the first unseeded player to win the Wimbledon women’s singles title?

Yes, Vondrousova is the first unseeded player in the professional era to win the Wimbledon women’s singles title.

Did Jabeur have a chance to become the first Arab player to win a Grand Slam title?

Yes, Jabeur had the opportunity to become the first Arab player to win a Grand Slam title, but she ended up as the runner-up for the second time.

Did Vondrousova face any challenges or obstacles during her journey to the championship?

Yes, Vondrousova faced a tough journey to the championship, including wrist surgery just a year ago. However, she showed resilience and consistency throughout the tournament.

Did Jabeur express any feelings about her loss?

Yes, Jabeur expressed that this loss was the most painful of her career. Despite the defeat, she remains determined and committed to her dreams of winning a Grand Slam title.

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Australian Open: Relentless Medvedev knocks out Zverev in the semis; to play Sinner next

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Daniil Medvedev
Daniil Medvedev

Melbourne, Jan 26 (IANS) Daniil Medvedev advanced through to the final of the Australian Open for a third time after producing a dramatic comeback to beat Alexander Zverev 5-7, 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-6(5), 6-3 in the second semifinal clash at Rod Laver Arena here on Friday.

With his 27th match win in Melbourne Park, Medvedev is the 13th man in the Open Era to reach the Australian Open final on three or more occasions, having lost in 2021 and 2022, when he led Rafael Nadal by two sets.

The script initially favoured Zverev, who stormed into a 4-1 lead in the first set with a double break, seemingly dictating the narrative. However, Medvedev, battling the physical toll of gruelling matches, refused to succumb to the German’s dominance.

The pivotal moment arrived at 5-5, a juncture where Medvedev, fueled by an indomitable spirit, fought back into contention. A dramatic 51-shot rally unfolded, leaving spectators in awe, but it was Zverev who clinched the set with a decisive winner.

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As the second set commenced, Zverev continued his surge, securing a break at 2-2 and consolidating his advantage to go 4-2 up. Unyielding in his pursuit, Zverev closed out the set with clinical precision, leaving Medvedev with a mountain to climb. Undeterred, the Russian took a strategic bathroom break at the end of the set, emerging with a renewed vigour that belied the physical toll.

The third set unfolded as a captivating battle, with both players matching each other shot for shot. The set culminated in a tie-break, a fitting conclusion to a battle marked by equality. Medvedev, seemingly on the brink of defeat at 3-1 down, seized the moment as cracks appeared in Zverev’s game. With unwavering focus, he capitalised on his opponent’s errors, forcing a fourth set against all odds.

What ensued was a war of attrition, with Medvedev adopting a relentless baseline grind that stifled Zverev’s pace. The momentum had shifted, and the Russian maestro took control, breaking Zverev to go 3-2 ahead. The tension mounted as they reached another tie-break, where Medvedev, propelled by a remarkable forehand drop shot, secured a set point and aced Zverev to force a decider.

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Now in the ascendancy, Medvedev continued to dictate the rallies, forcing errors from Zverev’s racket. A crucial break at 3-2 paved the way for Medvedev to serve out the match, completing a comeback for the ages. The 5-7, 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-6(5), 6-3 triumph catapulted Medvedev into his sixth Grand Slam final, setting the stage for a showdown with the formidable Jannik Sinner.

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Australian Open: Djokovic rates semis defeat to Sinner as “one of the worst Grand Slam matches”

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Melbourne, Jan 26 (IANS) The 10-time champion in Melbourne, Novak Djokovic has termed the Australian Open 2024 semifinal defeat by the Italian Jannik Sinner as “one of the worst Grand Slam matches I’ve ever played”.

Sinner, at 22 years the youngest man to reach a final at Melbourne Park since 2008, registered a stunning 6-1, 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-3 triumph at the Rod Laver Arena, ending Djokovic’s 33-match winning streak in Melbourne and handing him his first Australian Open defeat since 2018.

Djokovic found himself overpowered and outplayed by the young contender. The Serbian maestro, known for his dominance on the court, was visibly frustrated as he struggled to find his rhythm, committing an uncharacteristic 54 unforced errors.

In a post-match press conference, Djokovic, critiquing his own performance with brutal honesty, said, “I was shocked with my level in a bad way”.

Acknowledging the stark contrast between his usual brilliance and the lacklustre display on that fateful day, he admitted, “There was not much I was doing right in the first two sets. This is one of the worst Grand Slam matches I’ve ever played; at least that I remember. [It’s] not a very pleasant feeling playing this way. Credit to him for doing everything better than me in every aspect of the game. I tried, I fought. I managed to raise the level a little bit in the third, saved a match point, and played a good tie-break.

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“But (in) the fourth set, (it was a) very bad game to lose, 40-0 up on 1-2, against the wind a little bit. The performance-wise level of my tennis was really not great,” said Djokovic.

Djokovic had dropped three sets en route to the last-four stage at Melbourne Park, but his dominance had shown in all the matches he had played before his encounter with Sinner.

The Italian raced into a two-set lead, and the top seed’s third-set revival would prove only temporary.

“The whole tournament I haven’t really played close to my best,” Djokovic admitted. “Maybe against (Adrian) Mannarino, I was great, but most of the matches I was not playing up to par [compared to] the way I play here in Australia normally.

“It did surprise me because I thought it wouldn’t be that bad in the first two sets. But on the other hand, I didn’t feel really myself on the court during this tournament. One can say the semi-finals is a great result, of course, but I always expect the highest of myself, and it wasn’t meant to be today.

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“There’s a lot of negative things that I’ve done on the court today in terms of my game that I’m not really pleased with; return, movement, forehand, backhand. Everything was just subpar,” said the tennis legend from Serbia.

Despite the bitter defeat, Djokovic swiftly dispelled any notions of age catching up with him. At 36, he remained resolute, expressing high hopes for future tournaments, including the Grand Slams and the Olympics.

“I still have high hopes for other Slams (and the) Olympics, and whatever tournaments that I’ll play. It’s not the feeling that I’m used to,” he confessed, reflecting on the deviation from his customary standards.

“This tournament hasn’t been up to the standard that I would normally play or expect myself to play, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the beginning of the end. Let’s see what happens in the rest of the season,” he said.

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Australian Open: Sinner stuns Djokovic to reach first Grand Slam final

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sinner vs djkovic au open
sinner vs djkovic au open

Melbourne, Jan 26 (IANS) Jannik Sinner recorded a dominant win against 10-time champion Novak Djokovic to reach his first Grand Slam final, scuttling Serbian’s bid for a record-extending 11th Australian Open in the semifinals on Friday.

The youngest man to reach a final at Melbourne Park since 2008, the 22-year-old Italian registered a stunning 6-1, 6-2, 6-7(6-8), 6-3 triumph at Rod Laver Arena, ending Djokovic’s 33-match Melbourne winning streak and handing him his first Australian Open defeat since 2018.

“It was a very, very tough match. I started off really well. For two sets, I felt like he was not feeling that great on court so I just tried to keep pushing. Then in the third set I had match point and I missed the forehand, but this is tennis. I just tried to be ready also for the next set, which I started off really well. And obviously the atmosphere was so great to play here,” Sinner said in his on-court interview.

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Only sixth months ago, world No.1 Djokovic had few difficulties keeping the Italian contained in the Wimbledon semifinals, but a pair of confidence-boosting wins from three subsequent encounters had invigorated Sinner’s belief, AusOpen reports.

In just his second Grand Slam semifinal, Sinner paid no attention to precedent and after three hours and 23 minutes handed Djokovic his first loss against a top-five opponent at Melbourne Park since the Serb fell to Roger Federer in the fourth round in 2007.

Sinner will meet either third seed Daniil Medvedev or sixth seed Alexander Zverev for his maiden major trophy on Sunday.

“The confidence from the end of last year has for sure kept the belief that I can play against the best players in the world. I’m really happy that I can play Sunday my first final. Let’s see how it goes. But I’m really happy, I’ll come here with a smile and I’ll try my best,” the Italian said.

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Despite the defeat, Djokovic will remain No. 1 in the ATP Rankings. Sinner could rise to a career-high of No. 3 if he wins his first major title and Daniil Medvedev loses to Alexander Zverev in Friday’s second semifinal.

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Australian Open: Hsieh-Zielinski clinch first major mixed doubles title

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Hsieh-Zielinski australian open
Hsieh-Zielinski australian open

Melbourne, Jan 26 (IANS) In the first championship match between two top-four seeded teams at Melbourne Park in 23 years, Hsieh Su-wei and Jan Zielinski emerged triumphant in the mixed doubles event.

The No.3 seeds fought past second seeds American Desirae Krawczyk and Brit Neal Skupski, 6-7(5-7), 6-4, 11-9 in an enthralling and high-quality final at Rod Laver Arena.

Hsieh and Zielinski saved a championship point in a high-pressure match tiebreak, before sealing victory in just under two hours.

It is a first major mixed doubles title for both 38-year-old Hsieh and 27-year-old Zielinski, who fought back from a 2-4 deficit in the second set and then almost squandered a 7-4 advantage in a thrilling match tiebreak, Aus Open reports.

Their victory sees Hsieh become the first player from Chinese Taipei to win an Australian Open mixed doubles title, while Zielinski is the first Polish player in history to capture a major mixed doubles crown.

Hsieh has the chance to win another Australian Open title on Sunday, when she competes in the women’s doubles final alongside Belgium’s Elise Mertens.

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Australian Open: Zheng Qinwen storms into maiden Grand Slam final

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Zheng Qinwen
Zheng Qinwen
Pan Pacific Open: Zheng Qinwen routs top seed Badosa to reach quarters / Release Date & Time: March 23, 2023 6:13 PM

Melbourne, Jan 25 (IANS) Zheng Qinwen has etched her name into the annals of tennis history, storming into her first Grand Slam final at the Australian Open 2024. The 12th seed, hailing from China, secured a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory over qualifier Dayana Yastremska in an exhilarating showdown that lasted an hour and 42 minutes, here at the Rod Laver Arena.

While Zheng encountered some challenges with her first serve, her relentless pursuit of victory propelled her to become the first Chinese player since Li Na in 2014 to reach a major final at the Australian Open. The 21-year-old, starting the tournament as the world No.15, now stands on the cusp of breaking into the top 10 when the new rankings are unveiled on Monday.

Supported fervently by vocal fans at Rod Laver Arena, Zheng’s remarkable journey to the final showcases not only her individual brilliance but also underscores the growing prominence of Chinese tennis on the global stage.

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Zheng’s path to the championship clash is set against the defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. Earlier, the second seed, with a 1-0 record against Zheng, secured her spot in the final by overcoming the formidable challenge of reigning US Open champion Coco Gauff in straight sets.

The upcoming Saturday night showdown promises to be a spectacle, with Sabalenka aiming to retain her title and Zheng seeking to make history with a Grand Slam triumph. Their previous encounter in the quarterfinals of the US Open saw Sabalenka maintaining a clean slate against Zheng, not facing a single break point.

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